Monday, 5 August 2019
There is an increasing need for tunnels to be retrofitted rather than maintained, due to excessive congestion on roads around tunnels, deteriorating structures, technological improvements and demand for higher standards of safety.
As a result, Austroads has produced a new Part 4 to its Guide to Road Tunnels to support road agencies when they are retrofitting or refurbishing tunnels, or replacing assets in tunnels, in Australia and New Zealand.
“Part 4: Retrofitting Tunnels provides guidance on when refurbishment is needed and the types of refurbishment that can be considered,” says Les Louis, principal author and ARRB Associate. “The Guide provides processes for developing project requirements, geometric considerations relating to cross-sections, and information on traffic management functions including signs and lighting.
Part 4 also contains guidance on fire protection and evacuation systems, mechanical systems including pumps and lifts, electrical and electronic components including tunnel management systems and power supply, and energy efficiency.”
Principles and standards are based on experience across Australasia and in other countries where tunnels have been operating for many years.
“Practices from other countries have been considered in the context of Australian and New Zealand conditions, experience and legislative requirements,” says Les.
Guide link: Guide to Road Tunnels Part 4: Retrofitting Tunnels
No charge but registration essential. Can't make the live session? Register and we'll send you a link to the recording. Register now!